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How to Create a Xiaohongshu Account as a Tourist – A Complete Guide for Travelers

by James · June 18, 2025

How to Create a Xiaohongshu Account as a Tourist – A Complete Guide for Travelers

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Key Takeaways

  • Learn the step-by-step process to create a Xiaohongshu account as a tourist, overcoming regional restrictions for seamless access.
  • Discover Xiaohongshu travel search tips to find budget-friendly destinations and hidden gems.
  • Explore the best Xiaohongshu features for backpackers, such as interactive maps and community chats.
  • Master how to follow Xiaohongshu influencers for China travel to gain personalized insights.
  • Adjust Xiaohongshu language settings for non-Chinese users to navigate the app effortlessly.

Table of Contents

Drawing from reliable research, Xiaohongshu is invaluable for travelers seeking genuine experiences, such as unfiltered reviews and local advice (source; source; source). Once you set up your account, you’ll dive into Xiaohongshu travel search tips for finding destinations and explore the best Xiaohongshu features for backpackers, like interactive tools for routes and budgets. You’ll also learn how to follow Xiaohongshu influencers for China travel to build connections and adjust Xiaohongshu language settings for non-Chinese users to make navigation easier. For more on must-visit cities, check out the details provided.

By focusing on how to create a Xiaohongshu account as a tourist, this post provides practical, step-by-step advice for budget travelers. You’ll get strategies to handle barriers, such as regional limits, and tips to make your app use smooth and fun. Once set up, you’ll discover Xiaohongshu travel search tips and the best Xiaohongshu features for backpackers to plan trips that save money and connect you with real people.

Section 1: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Xiaohongshu Account as a Tourist

In this section on how to create a Xiaohongshu account as a tourist, we’ll break down the process in simple steps. This guide is for beginners, helping you register and set up quickly, even if you’re outside China. Think of it as a clear path to join this travel social network and start exploring.

First, download and install the Xiaohongshu app on your phone. Go to the Apple App Store or Google Play, search for “Xiaohongshu,” and tap “Download” or “Install.” This app focuses on user-shared content for trips, making it essential for tourists seeking local insights. Once installed, you’re ready to sign up.

Next, open the app and select “Sign Up.” You have choices for registration, like using a mobile phone number, email address, or third-party accounts such as WeChat, QQ, or Apple ID. International phone numbers might work, but a Chinese number is better for verification to avoid delays. Enter your details and create a secure password to protect your profile.

After signing up, verify your account by entering a code sent via SMS or email. This step confirms your identity and unlocks full access. If you’re a tourist with an international number facing restrictions, use services for virtual Chinese numbers as a workaround. Verification is key to using features like travel searches and community chats.

Once verified, set up your profile. Add a profile photo that shows your face or travel spirit, write a short bio that mentions your interests, like “Backpacker exploring China,” and add your location or links to other apps. A good profile helps you connect with others and get personalized tips.

For tourists, keep in mind that regional blocks might occur, so use a VPN to access or register if needed. Also, for shopping or payments in the app, international cards may not work well, so link WeChat Pay or Alipay if possible, though this often requires a local setup.

In this guide on how to create a Xiaohongshu account as a tourist, we’ve covered the basics. At the end, you’ll move to Xiaohongshu travel search tips to find your next spots (source; source; source). For additional budget-friendly travel ideas, refer to the resources.

Section 2: Xiaohongshu Travel Search Tips

Now that you’ve created your Xiaohongshu account as a tourist, let’s explore Xiaohongshu travel search tips to find the best spots for your trip. These tips will help you master searches and uncover hidden gems, making your backpacking easier and more efficient.

Start by using the search bar effectively. Type in destination names in English or Chinese to get a wide range of results. For example, search for “Beijing attractions” or add hashtags like #ShanghaiEats or #BackpackerChina to see themed posts. Hashtags act as filters, grouping content from fellow travelers and locals.

Apply search filters to refine your results. Choose options for location, post type such as notes or videos, date, and popularity. This way, you can focus on recent, high-rated content that matches your needs, like budget options for hostels. Exploring the “Explore” tab is another smart move, as it shows trending spots and user recommendations for real-time ideas.

For backpackers, use specific search strategies to save money and time. Look for terms like “budget hostel,” “hidden gem,” or “cheap eats” to find affordable choices. Once you spot useful posts, use the bookmark function to save them for your itinerary. This keeps everything organized in one place.

Don’t stop at searching—engage with the community. Message creators or comment on posts to ask for advice, such as “What’s the best way to get around?” This interaction can lead to personalized tips and new friends. By following these Xiaohongshu travel search methods, you’ll turn the app into a powerful tool for planning.

Section 3: Best Xiaohongshu Features for Backpackers

Building on your new account and search skills, discover the best Xiaohongshu features for backpackers to enhance your travel experience. These tools make planning trips simpler, from finding routes to connecting with others, all while keeping costs low. For more on backpacking spots, check the details.

One top feature is the user-generated travel feeds. These show detailed posts, photos, and reviews from real travelers, giving you honest insights into places like street food stalls or quiet hostels. For example, scroll through feeds to see geotagged spots that match your backpacking style.

Interactive maps are another key feature. They help you locate attractions, food spots, or accommodations with ease. Tap on a post to see its exact location on a map, then plan your route without getting lost. This is perfect for budget travelers navigating new cities.

Live streams offer real-time help. Join sessions where users share backpacking hacks, answer questions, and discuss events. For instance, watch a stream on “safe hiking in China” and chat directly with the host. It’s like having a guide in your pocket.

The app also includes shopping integration for travel gear. You can order items like portable chargers or rain gear, though be aware of limits for overseas payments. If possible, link local payment methods to avoid issues.

In practice, use comment sections or direct messages to ask locals for advice on routes or safety. Join forums to discuss budgeting and share tips with other backpackers. These features make Xiaohongshu a go-to app for affordable adventures.

Section 4: How to Follow Xiaohongshu Influencers for China Travel

With the best Xiaohongshu features for backpackers in mind, now focus on how to follow Xiaohongshu influencers for China travel. This step helps you build a personalized feed full of expert advice, making your journeys more informed and exciting.

Start by using the search function to find influencers. Look for niches like budget travel or adventure by typing keywords such as “China backpacker experts” or specific tags. The app’s recommendations section often suggests popular creators in travel categories, so check there first.

Once you find an influencer, tap “Follow” to add their content to your feed. This brings fresh posts about city guides or rural spots right to you. Engage by liking, saving, or commenting on their shares to build connections and get noticed.

To personalize your feed, interact often with travel content. This trains the algorithm to show more relevant posts, like tips on hidden trails or cheap eats. Over time, you might even get invites to private groups for deeper discussions.

For example, follow influencers who focus on similar journeys, such as solo backpacking in Beijing. Comment on their posts with questions like “How did you find that hostel?” to gain valuable insights. This network can offer diverse views, from urban explorations to countryside trips.

Section 5: Xiaohongshu Language Settings for Non-Chinese Users

Finally, to make your account fully usable, adjust the Xiaohongshu language settings for non-Chinese users. This ensures you can navigate the app without barriers, even if English options are limited.

Go to your account settings and find the “Language” or “App Language” section. Select English or your preferred language from the available choices. Xiaohongshu is working on more support, but some parts might still show Chinese text.

If settings revert or menus stay untranslated, try troubleshooting steps. Use built-in translate functions or browser extensions to auto-translate posts. Enable subtitles on videos to follow along easily. For scanning text, external apps can help turn Chinese words into your language.

These adjustments are crucial for tourists, as they remove language blocks and let you focus on travel planning. For instance, translate a post about a budget restaurant to get directions quickly.

With your Xiaohongshu language settings for non-Chinese users sorted, you’re set to enjoy the app fully. This wraps up the guide on how to create a Xiaohongshu account as a tourist, making your travels more accessible and fun.

Conclusion

In summary, creating a Xiaohongshu account as a tourist opens up a world of travel opportunities, from the initial steps we covered to advanced tips like Xiaohongshu travel search techniques and the best Xiaohongshu features for backpackers. You’ve learned how to register, search effectively, use key tools, follow influencers for China travel, and tweak language settings for non-Chinese users.

Based on research, this process unlocks practical benefits for trips in China, helping you find authentic tips and connect with others (source; source; source). Here’s a quick checklist: Download the app and sign up with verification, master Xiaohongshu travel search tips, explore the best features for backpackers, follow influencers, and adjust language settings.

Watch out for regional restrictions and consider a VPN if needed. We encourage you to share your experiences in the comments or try these tips on your next trip. Whether you’re using Xiaohongshu travel search methods or engaging with influencers, this guide ensures you’re ready for great adventures after creating your account as a tourist.

FAQ

  • What if I can’t verify my Xiaohongshu account with an international number? Try using a virtual Chinese number service as a workaround to complete verification and gain full access.
  • How can I optimize my searches on Xiaohongshu for budget travel? Use hashtags like #BackpackerChina and filters for popularity to find affordable options quickly.
  • Is it safe to follow influencers on Xiaohongshu? Yes, as long as you engage thoughtfully and verify information, following reputable creators can provide valuable, safe travel advice.

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